What To Do After A Car Accident: NEC’s Guide for Filing A Claim And Beyond

Knowing what to do following a car crash, how to handle an accident with no injuries, and how to file your auto insurance claim can help save you time, money, and unnecessary stress. Helping our drivers get back on their feet following a stressful event like a car accident is our primary objective, and that’s why we offer this easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide for how to navigate these situations safely, calmly, and with confidence. 

What To Do Immediately After A Car Accident

• Ensure Your and Your Passengers Safety First — Move to a safe area if the vehicles are blocking traffic, but avoid leaving the scene.
• Assess for Injuries — Assess yourself, your passengers, and anyone else involved. If there are any serious injuries, we advise calling emergency services. 
• Call the Authorities — Even minor accidents should be reported to law enforcement for documentation purposes. Never leave the scene of an accident without reporting it to law enforcement.
• Document the Accident — Take multiple photos of the damage, the license plates of the additional vehicles involved, road conditions, and any traffic signs.
• Exchange Personal Information — Collect the other driver’s name, phone number, insurance company, policy number, and license plate details.

How To Handle A Car Accident With No Injuries

Even if everyone walks away unscathed, it’s important to follow proper procedures. All the steps drivers need to follow in this kind of situation are the same as those outlined above, but in this circumstance we also recommend looking for witnesses. If there are any individuals who witnessed the incident, we strongly recommend collecting their contact information to provide to law enforcement and your insurance provider. 

How To File A Car Accident Claim with NEC

At NEC Insurance, we think being in the accident should be the most difficult part of this process, not filing your claim. To file your auto claim, all you have to do is follow these simple steps:

• Contact your NEC broker promptly: Report the accident to your broker via a phone call or by visiting our website.
• Provide documentation of the incident: Submit your photos of the damage, police reports, and witness statements, if available.
• Conduct a claim review: Our team will review the information you’ve provided and guide you through the process.
• Repair coordination: We will provide you with recommendations for authorized repair shops or arrange vehicle inspections.
• Follow up: Keep in touch with your claims adjuster to stay updated on your claim’s status until resolution.

Turn a Fender-Bender Into a Lesson Learned

Every car accident, big or small, is an opportunity to improve safety and preparedness:

• Review Your Driving Habits
• Update Your Insurance Policy: Ensure your auto coverage reflects your current fleet of vehicles, licensed and non-excluded drivers, and risks.
• Prepare an Emergency Kit
• Stay Educated: Review and learn local traffic laws and safe driving tips.
• Share Knowledge: Encourage friends, family, and new drivers to follow safe driving practices and accident procedures.

For more information on how to file a claim following an accident, please contact your NEC Insurance broker today to learn more.